TPC Sawgrass, home to the prestigious PLAYERS Championship, has been the backdrop for some of golf’s most contentious moments. From fiery rivalries to on-course blunders, the tournament has had its fair share of drama. Here, we delve into the top five most debated incidents in the history of the tournament, listed from the most shocking to those that continue to keep fans talking.
5. Keith Mitchell’s explosive club slam: In the 2023 PLAYERS Championship, Keith Mitchell’s frustration boiled over in a moment that has since become part of tournament folklore. After a ball went awry into the water, Mitchell vented his anger by thrashing his club into the tee box, just as the weather horn sounded. This unexpected blend of fury and comedy made headlines. Fast forward to March 2024, Mitchell, Smylie Kaufman, and Kevin Kisner relived this unforgettable incident during the “Happy Hour” segment. The reenactment of events turned out to be even more hilarious, with Mitchell’s defiant walk back to the clubhouse, Kisner’s quips about the “trench” on the tee box, and Mitchell’s caddie, John Limanti, clutching an umbrella, evoking laughter.
4. Rory McIlroy’s memorable blunder: Despite an impressive 10 birdies in the first round of the 2024 PLAYERS, it was McIlroy’s mishap that stole the limelight. On the seventh hole, McIlroy’s tee shot landed in the water, sparking a controversy about the ball’s landing location and subsequent drop point. The confusion surrounding the incident became a hot talking point during the Golf Channel’s postgame show, adding an unexpected twist to McIlroy’s otherwise strong round.
3. Cameron Smith’s privileges revoked at TPC Sawgrass: After signing with LIV Golf, Cameron Smith, the 2022 Players Champion, found himself stripped of certain privileges at TPC Sawgrass. His reserved parking spot was removed, and memorabilia featuring his winning clubs and photos were taken down from the pro shop and clubhouse. TPC Sawgrass General Manager, Derek Sprague, stated that LIV signees lose their PGA Tour privileges at TPC properties. This left Smith, a resident of Ponte Vedra Beach and a regular at TPC Sawgrass, in search of new parking and playing arrangements.
2. Xander Schauffele’s unfortunate Players record: Xander Schauffele had a promising debut in 2018, tying for second place. But his subsequent performances have been less impressive, with three consecutive missed cuts. Schauffele has acknowledged his poor record humorously, commenting on how frequently he’s reminded of it. Despite the jokes, he’s been working hard to move past the haunting memory of the 2022 Players Championship, where a mishit tee shot led to a disastrous round.
1. The epic feud between Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia: The 2013 PLAYERS Championship saw the rivalry between Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia reach fever pitch. The controversy kicked off when Woods allegedly pulled a club while Garcia was preparing to hit a shot, leading to a series of recriminations. Garcia’s subsequent mishits, coupled with Woods’ victory, heightened the tension. However, the real controversy came weeks later when Garcia made a racially insensitive joke about Woods, leading to widespread condemnation. Despite Garcia’s apology, the incident deepened their rivalry, and the memory of this infamous clash still resonates whenever the tournament rolls around.
These incidents highlight the drama and intensity that can unfold during the PLAYERS Championship. What’s your most memorable or controversial moment from the tournament? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.